Early report of West Nile virus infected bird worries officials

April 28, 2006
Santa Paula News

With unseasonable weather conditions bringing rain to Ventura County throughout April, West Nile virus has become an early concern with the positive testing of a bird found earlier this month in Camarillo.

By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesWith unseasonable weather conditions bringing rain to Ventura County throughout April, West Nile virus has become an early concern with the positive testing of a bird found earlier this month in Camarillo. In 2005, the first confirmed case of West Nile virus was reported in July, so last week’s test results for a tiny cliff swallow found dead on the west side of Camarillo has county health officials worried.So far this year, 11 dead birds in four of California’s 58 counties have tested positive for West Nile virus. Last year Ventura County reported 62 birds, eight horses and one human infected with the West Nile virus.Although many that are exposed to the disease might not even be aware they are infected, the virus can cause flu-like symptoms with fever, headache and mild muscle aches. In rare incidences, the virus can result in fatalities. Horses are also at high risk of becoming infected by the virus, passed from infected birds to mosquitoes that bite them.Ventura County Environmental Health and the Mosquito & Vector Control Association of California are urging that residents take steps to prevent a serious outbreak of the virus and to remember that standing water provides a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Standing water – where mosquitoes lay their eggs - can be found in outdoor garden containers, children’s toys and swimming pools, as well as puddles in areas with poor drainage.
Be aware that dusk to dawn is the peak biting time for mosquitoes, and if you must be outside during this time take extra precautions. When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks. Spraying clothing with DEET will give extra protection.Keep mosquitoes outside. Double-check the fit of your window and door screens, and do not let doors or windows without screens stand open.As ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, standing water must be eliminated. The Ventura County Environmental Health Department is asking that improperly maintained swimming pools or containers that could become mosquito breeding grounds on private property be reported by calling 658-4310.Depending on the severity of the West Nile virus outbreak, Santa Paula Fire personnel could start responding to reports of standing water, much like its enforcement action last year. Residents with ornamental ponds can get free mosquito eating fish from Ventura County by calling 662-6582.Dead birds should also be reported - although birds can die from other causes than West Nile virus – to the state Department of Health Services, 1-877-968-2473.



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